China’s air force is poised to officially introduce its new stealth fighter jet, the J-35A, at the upcoming Zhuhai Air Show, marking a significant addition to the country's rapidly expanding military arsenal. Images of the J-35A were released during a press conference on Tuesday, with the aircraft set to make its public debut in the southern city from November 12 to 17.

The J-35A is seen as part of China’s strategy to bolster its stealth capabilities in a bid to match the United States. Designed primarily for air combat operations, it also has the capability to conduct air-to-surface attacks, according to reports from Chinese military-affiliated sources. If commissioned into service, China would become the second nation after the U.S. to operate two types of stealth fighters, following the induction of the J-20 in 2017.

Stealth fighters are engineered to evade radar detection, enabling them to carry out missions without being intercepted. Experts anticipate that the J-35A could eventually serve as a carrier-based aircraft, enhancing the operational strength of China’s naval and aerial forces. Military analyst Li Li highlighted that this development would significantly bolster China's combat capabilities at sea and in the air.

The introduction of the J-35A follows the People’s Liberation Army Air Force's recent expansion, with over 70 J-20s added to its fleet between July 2023 and June 2024, bringing the total to approximately 195 operational units.

While it remains uncertain when the J-35A will officially enter military service, its introduction follows more than a decade of development. Carl Schuster, a former director of operations at the U.S. Pacific Command, suggested that the J-35A, which made its maiden flight in 2021, is likely intended for the PLA Navy and may enter production by early next year.

China has faced allegations of stealing stealth fighter technology from the U.S., which the government has vigorously denied. The J-35A is described as an independently developed fighter by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).

In addition to the J-35A, the Zhuhai Air Show will showcase other new technologies, including the H-19 surface-to-air missile system and advanced reconnaissance and strike UAVs. Notably, Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter will also make its debut at this year’s event, which features military equipment from 49 countries and regions.